Celebrate the holiday season with this vibrant and jiggly Easy Layered Christmas Jello! With festive red and green layers sandwiching a creamy white center, this cheerful treat looks like a slice of Christmas magic. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a kid-friendly dessert, or just want to brighten up your dessert table, this fun and nostalgic recipe is sure to bring out the holiday spirit.

Each bite offers a delightful texture contrast: the fruity bounce of Jello, the smooth tanginess of the cream cheese layer, and the soft crunch of toppings like crushed peppermints or sprinkles. It’s incredibly simple to make, easy to customize with your favorite flavors, and perfect for making ahead. Plus, it’s just so pretty on a plate.

What Kind of Jello Should I Use?

You’ll want to use two brightly colored Jello flavors—typically cherry or strawberry for red and lime for green. These classic choices give your dessert that unmistakable holiday look. Just be sure to use the regular (not instant) Jello gelatin for the right consistency and layer setting.

For the middle layer, unflavored gelatin is used with a blend of cream cheese and whipped topping to create a firm, creamy contrast to the colorful layers.

Ingredients for the Easy Layered Christmas Jello

Lime Jello – This gives the dessert its bright green bottom layer. You can substitute with any green gelatin flavor, but lime brings a tangy balance.

Cherry or Strawberry Jello – Adds a classic red layer on top, offering a fruity contrast to the lime and a festive appearance.

Unflavored Gelatin – Used to stabilize the cream layer so it holds between the two Jello layers.

Cream Cheese – This forms the creamy white middle, adding richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip) – Lightens the cream layer for a fluffy texture and helps it set nicely.

Boiling Water – Essential for dissolving both the flavored and unflavored gelatin.

Cold Water – Helps the gelatin cool down and begin to set evenly.

Toppings (optional) – Crushed peppermint, sprinkles, or a single red candy can be added for extra flair and crunch.

How To Make the Easy Layered Christmas Jello

Step 1: Prepare the Green Jello Base

Start by dissolving the lime Jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until completely set.

Step 2: Create the Creamy White Layer

In a bowl, sprinkle unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Then, add 3/4 cup of boiling water and stir until dissolved. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then slowly add the gelatin mixture. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Carefully spread this creamy mixture over the set green layer and chill for another hour.

Step 3: Add the Red Jello Layer

Dissolve the red Jello (cherry or strawberry) in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved, then mix in 1 cup of cold water. Let it cool slightly (but not set) before gently pouring it over the cream layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

Before serving, cut the Jello into neat squares. If desired, top each piece with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint, festive sprinkles, or a single red candy for a charming finish.

How to Serve and Store This Christmas Jello

This layered Jello is best served chilled and cut into small squares or rectangles. A sharp knife dipped in hot water helps achieve clean cuts through the layers. It’s a standout on dessert platters or can be plated individually for a more elegant touch.

To store, cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer the squares to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as Jello changes texture when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this layered Jello?

You can make it up to 2 days in advance. It actually holds its shape better when given plenty of time to set.

Can I use sugar-free Jello?

Yes! Sugar-free versions work great and are a lighter alternative. Just be sure to follow the same ratios and setting times.

Can I substitute gelatin with agar-agar?

Agar-agar can work, but it sets firmer and doesn’t have the same jiggle as traditional gelatin. Adjust according to the brand’s directions.

How do I prevent layers from mixing?

Let each layer fully set before adding the next. Cooling the Jello slightly before pouring helps keep the layers distinct.

Can I use fresh fruit in the layers?

Avoid fresh pineapple or kiwi as they contain enzymes that prevent Jello from setting. Berries or canned fruit can be added in moderation.

What size dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish works perfectly for even layers and easy slicing.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you love this Easy Layered Christmas Jello, here are more festive favorites you should try:

Condensed Milk Snow Cookies – Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that taste like snowflake dreams.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups – A refreshing citrusy swirl with a creamy cheesecake base.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies – All the richness of cheesecake in handheld cookie form.
Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie – A green minty delight for any festive table.
Winter Brittle – Sweet, crunchy, and perfect for gifting.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in raspberry instead of cherry? Add crushed candy canes on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more sweet inspiration on my Pinterest at Life with Jam!